Patent GB-1434280-A (GB)
Title: Logic arrangements
IPC: H03K19/168
Filed: 1973-08-23
Abstract: 1434280 Moving magnetic domain arrangements MONSANTO CO 23 Aug 1973 [24 Aug 1972] 39901/73 Heading H3B A moving cylindrical domain 3 input-3 output logic arrangement has three domain propagation paths X, Y and Z coupled by a transfer region where selected domain interaction takes place as domains are propagated between respective inputs and outputs, the form of the transfer region determining the nature of the logic to be performed. It is stated that the range of transfer region formations disclosed enables all the possible 3 input-3 output logic functions to be obtained. As described the propagation paths are formed by regular chevron permalloy tracks overlying a garnet layer supporting cylindrical domains, while the transfer region is formed by a pattern of further chevrons which couple the tracks, these chevrons being graded by unequal spacing or non- uniform width in accordance with the logic operation required. Fig. 4(A) shows one example of a graded transfer region 24 coupling two paths X, Y, the remaining path being wholly independent. In this arrangement the chevron permalloy pattern forming the transfer region increases in density from path X to path Y, and a domain in the first path is normally directed by the graded pattern into the second path unless repelled by a domain in the second path and within the transfer region. The logical functions available at the outputs F8a, F8b, F8c are shown in Fig. 4(B), the tendency for a domain to change paths being denoted by a triangle. In a modification, Fig. 5 the graded pattern extends between all three channels so that a domain in path X moves to path Z unless repelled by a domain in the latter path. In Fig. 6 the chevron pattern in the transfer region is uniformly spaced, and a domain in the centre path Y remains in that path unless displaced into one of the outer paths by a domain in the other outer path. This function is symbolized by a rectangle. Uniform chevron spacing between two paths X, Y only is used in Fig. 7, the remaining path Z being sufficiently near for a domain in the path to repel a domain from path Y to path X, but without provision of coupling chevrons for enabling domains to transfer between paths Y and Z. This is denoted by a circle. A further arrangement has the chevron grading so arranged, Fig. 8, that a domain in paths X or Z moves to path Y unless repelled. This grading is denser between paths X and Y as denoted by a circle in a triangle, with the result that a domain in path Y cannot be repelled into path X by a domain in path Z. Other chevron grading arrangements for further logical functions are disclosed schematically in Figs. 9 to 16 (not shown). Instead of vertical transfer of a domain by repulsion from one path to another, a domain may be progressively displaced between paths as it is repelled by an adjacent domain during longitudinal propagation, the switching action being effected by an elongate transfer region having non-uniform chevron spacings and chevron widths. Two such arrangements are shown in Figs. 18A and 18B which correspond to Fig. 5. Other arrangements are described, Figs. 19A to 20H (not shown). Interconnected groups of logic gates are also disclosed.